The Best Places to Travel Solo

Traveling alone is an experience that everyone should have at least once in their life. There are some best places to travel solo around the world that are especially worth visiting by yourself. World travel is usually considered an activity shared with at least one other person. However, this doesn’t have to be the case. There are many advantages to traveling on your own, specifically: you can dictate your own itinerary and see sites you want to see without worrying about accommodating another person’s schedule. Also, when you travel with a partner, it can be easy to forget about making bonds with other travelers. When you travel alone, you’re more likely to go on a journey of self discovery. If you are looking for some freedom on your next vacation, here are the best places to travel solo.

Barcelona, Spain

Not only is Barcelona one of the world’s most culturally rich cities, it is also incredibly walkable, which makes it one of the best places to travel solo. From window shopping along the Las Ramblas, strolling down the beach boardwalk or getting lost in the Gaudi-designed Park Guell, there are many places that the independent adventurer can explore.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen’s Scandinavian quirkiness is best experienced on your own terms. Just like Barcelona, one of Copenhagen’s biggest draws for the single traveler is its walkability. If you stay in a hotel or hostels in the Nyhavn, Copenhagen’s iconic multicolored waterfront district, you’ll find yourself within 100 footsteps from the city’s best restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Copenhagen is such a laid back city, no one will care that you’re dining alone. Plus, if you feel like exploring beyond the core, the city’s extensive public transit system is easy to navigate.

Guatemala

This small nation can easily be overlooked, but its rich culture and inexpensive lifestyle make this one of the best places to travel solo. With ancient Mayan ruins and its stunning natural landscapes, there is much to explore. Consider staying for a while to learn Spanish or volunteer with an international development organization.

Dublin, Ireland

This country is famous for its warm, welcoming hospitality—and this is extended to the solo traveler. Pull up a stool and head to a traditional Irish pub, where locals are more than happy to strike up a conversation with a friendly stranger. You might even be invited to listen in on traditional Celtic music session!

New York City, USA

There’s so much to explore in New York City that traveling alone will give you free reign to explore the streets of Manhattan and the outer boroughs with no arguments about which museums to see or neighbourhoods to visit. If you would rather not explore the city completely alone, you can always sign up for food and cultural tours throughout the city.

Newfoundland, Canada

This remote Canadian island province is famous for its rugged beautiful and friendly locals. Stay in the port city of St. John’s, where visitors can participate in a “screeching in” ceremony involving a shot of a local rum, a short recitation, and the kidding of a cod at one of the many pubs found along George Street. After being properly initiated, no trip to Newfoundland is complete without spending some time on the Atlantic Ocean, viewing icebergs, whales and seabirds.

Thailand

This picturesque Asian nation is one of the best places to travel solo for both sexes, as Buddhists beliefs promote equality between both sexes. Thailand’s cheap cost of living and party culture has given it a reputation for being an ideal destination for individual backpackers, so you’re likely to come across other like-minded world travelers along your journey.

Costa Rica

If you’re looking for more of an adventure, Costa Rica is a great option for the single traveler. With surfing, volcanoes and other outdoor recreational activities, Costa Rica offers plenty of excitement, in addition to absolutely breathtaking scenery.

Hong Kong, China

Hong Kong’s large, diverse population combined with its status as one of the world’s safest cities makes it one of the best places to travel solo. Due to Hong Kong’s history of British rule, it is a unique fascinating mix of Western and Eastern cultures. While delicious authentic Cantonese food is found everywhere in Hong Kong, its status as a cultural melting pot means that you can access virtually any type of food you’re craving.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Found on New Zealand’s magnificent South Island, the resort town of Queenstown is the perfect place for adrenaline junkies. From bungee jumping to zorbing to snowboarding, there are a variety of adventure activities that make Queenstown the perfect destination for single adventure-seekers. It’s not surprising that many travelers end up staying in Queenstown longer than expected.